The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that parents schedule orthodontic consultations for their children no later than age 7. This allows orthodontists to provide interceptive care and correct potential problems, such as teeth crowding in children, early on.
It could also simplify their orthodontic treatment plans later or even enable them to avoid orthodontics altogether. While many kids may not require early orthodontic treatment, it’s wise to have experienced professionals—like those at Maldonado Orthodontics—evaluate them and determine the ideal time for braces.
So, what is the ideal age for braces for a child? If an orthodontist recommends that your child get braces in Metairie, LA, ensure you know the answer to this question. Keep reading to learn the ideal age for braces and how early intervention can lead to a healthier, more confident smile.
The Right Age for Braces for a Child
Generally speaking, the perfect age for braces for a child is between 9 and 14. However, some kids might need them sooner than this, and others may opt to get them during their late teen years.
Let’s look at what will decide when a child needs braces.
When a Child Under 9 May Need Braces
There is a reason why the AAO recommends that parents arrange for their children to have orthodontic consultations by the time they are 7. In certain instances, kids as young as 6 or 7 might have to start early orthodontic treatments.
This could be the case for your child if they need:
- Overbite correction or underbite treatment
- Jaw imbalance treatment
- Bite alignment treatment
- Crossbite correction
- Space opening for blocked out teeth
Many children can be treated for these same issues between the ages of 9 and 14. However, orthodontists might choose to start treating them sooner if they have severe problems that could worsen without early intervention.
Why Most Children Get Braces Between 9 and 14
While some parents are told to have their children begin orthodontic treatments when they are still very young, the majority can wait until their kids are between 9 and 14 to get started. This is the ideal age for braces for a child in most cases.
Why? Here are the reasons orthodontics typically have parents wait until their kids are between these ages to get braces:
- By this age, most children have lost their baby teeth and have a full set of permanent teeth, which allows for more effective orthodontic treatment.
- Their jawbones are still growing and more adaptable, making it easier to guide proper jaw and bite development.
- Their tissues, including gums and ligaments, are more responsive to tooth movement, which can lead to quicker and more stable results.
There is obviously a large gap between 9-year-olds and 14-year-olds, leaving plenty of wiggle room for parents interested in investing in braces for their children. They should lean on orthodontists to tell them the correct age for braces for a child based on the condition of their teeth, gums, and jaws. They should also start exploring how braces work in preparation for when the time comes.
Can Children Over 14 Still Get Braces?
One thing to remember when trying to figure out the right age for braces for a child is that it’s never too late for them to go through orthodontic treatments. Even if your child has already celebrated their 15th, 16th, 17th, or 18th birthday, they are still eligible for braces. Your child can even look into getting braces when they become an adult.
However, 9 to 14 is still considered the best age range for braces since it’s the easiest time for orthodontists to provide children with long-lasting results.
Contact Us To Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation for Your Child
Has your son or daughter reached the ideal age for braces for a child? Schedule an appointment for them at Maldonado Orthodontics to see whether you should proceed with orthodontic treatment.
You might also consider getting adult braces to straighten your own teeth. As we just alluded to, it’s never too late to use braces to achieve the perfect smile.
Call us at (225) 869-3753 or reach out online to arrange a visit with a trusted orthodontist.
